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I'm sorry vs Pardon me

Both 'I'm sorry' and 'Pardon me' are correct phrases used to apologize or ask for forgiveness in different contexts. 'I'm sorry' is more commonly used to express regret or sympathy, while 'Pardon me' is often used to ask for forgiveness or to excuse oneself in a polite manner. The choice between the two depends on the situation and the level of formality required.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 865 views

I'm sorry

The phrase 'I'm sorry' is a common and correct way to express regret or sympathy in English.

Use 'I'm sorry' to apologize for something you have done wrong or to express sympathy for someone else's situation.

Examples:

  • I'm sorry for being late.
  • I'm sorry to hear about your loss.
  • I'm sorry about those irritating security procedures.
  • I'm sorry about the weekend...
  • I'm sorry, but I agree with the district attorney.
  • I'm sorry, Dennis, but...
  • I'm sorry for going through your purse.
  • I'm sorry, Allie, but I ordered a double-shot espresso.
  • Recently divorced and I'm sorry.
  • You know, I'm sorry.
  • [Olive] I'm sorry.
  • I'm sorry we couldn'tbe happy together.
  • And I'm sorry, but there's...
  • I'm sorry I interrupted your birthday party.
  • Dr. Kane, I'm sorry.
  • I'm sorry I had to do it this way, Tara.
  • I'm sorry, I have an urgent personal conflict.
  • Nina, sweetie, I'm sorry.
  • I already did, I'm sorry.
  • I'm sorry we met under such weird circumstances.
  • I'm sorry. I got to take care of something.
  • I'm sorry, but... these signs are ridiculous.

Alternatives:

  • I apologize
  • I regret
  • I feel bad

Pardon me

The phrase 'Pardon me' is a polite way to ask for forgiveness or to excuse oneself in English.

Use 'Pardon me' to ask for forgiveness for a mistake or to politely interrupt someone.

Examples:

  • Pardon me, I didn't mean to bump into you.
  • Pardon me, could you repeat that?
  • Pardon me, over here, please.
  • Pardon me, a caterpillar, Captain.
  • Pardon me. I must seem very nervous.
  • Pardon me, we haven't met formally.
  • Pardon me, Chalky. I have a press conference.
  • Pardon me if I don't take you seriously.
  • Pardon me, my good fellow.
  • Pardon me to bother you at this hour.
  • Pardon me for trying to protect my investment by keeping my mouth shut.
  • Pardon me, I'm Nathan's father, Steve.
  • Pardon me for treading on your territory.
  • Pardon me, but you are in my seat.
  • Pardon me, but I would rather do something more productive.
  • Pardon me. I can hear a squeaking.
  • Pardon me. I'm going to take some pictures.
  • Pardon me while I make the rounds.
  • Pardon me for trying to broaden his horizons.
  • Pardon me if I seem to be too inquisitive.
  • Pardon me, Mr. Allenbury.
  • Pardon me, ladies, gentlemen.

Alternatives:

  • Excuse me
  • Forgive me
  • Sorry to interrupt

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